Arugula Salad with Shaved Parmesan Recipe
If you’re looking for a salad that’s bursting with freshness yet dazzlingly simple, Arugula Salad with Shaved Parmesan is about to become your go-to favorite. This Italian-inspired dish combines the peppery bite of arugula, creamy slivers of Parmesan, and a zippy homemade lemon vinaigrette that ties it all together. Whether served as a light lunch or an elegant appetizer, every bite celebrates the beauty of good ingredients with minimal fuss. Let’s dive in and make this vibrant salad part of your table—and your heart!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Arugula Salad with Shaved Parmesan is its simplicity—each ingredient shines in its own way. Quality counts here, so reach for the freshest arugula and a block of real Parmesan to let the flavors pop. Here’s what you’ll need to create salad perfection:
- Fresh arugula (4 cups): Its lively, peppery flavor anchors the salad and gives it a lovely, crisp texture.
- Shaved Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Adds salty, nutty richness; shaving your own yields the most delicate texture.
- Extra-virgin olive oil (2 tablespoons): A fruity, robust oil is key for the vinaigrette’s body and flavor.
- Fresh lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens up the salad with a pop of citrus acidity—fresh-squeezed makes a big difference.
- Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon): Gives the dressing a gentle tang and helps it emulsify beautifully.
- Honey (1/2 teaspoon): Just a touch balances the acidity and complements the cheese’s saltiness.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning; use a light hand and taste as you go.
- Optional toppings: Sprinkle on toasted pine nuts for crunch, vibrant cherry tomatoes for juiciness, or thinly sliced red onion for a delicate bite.
How to Make Arugula Salad with Shaved Parmesan
Step 1: Whisk the Lemon Vinaigrette
Start by making the irresistible dressing that will bring your Arugula Salad with Shaved Parmesan to life. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, a pinch of salt, and a few grinds of black pepper. You want the mixture to look slightly creamy, with all the ingredients seamlessly blended. This simple act of whisking creates a lush, tangy vinaigrette that will cling beautifully to every leaf.
Step 2: Prep the Greens
Grab your biggest salad bowl and add the fresh arugula. If you’ve just washed it, be sure to spin it dry—excess water can water down the dressing. The more vibrant and perky your arugula, the prettier your finished salad will look (and taste!).
Step 3: Toss with Dressing
Drizzle your homemade lemon vinaigrette evenly over the arugula, and toss gently using tongs or your (clean!) hands to coat every leaf. The dressing is assertive but delicate, so go easy—you want just enough to glisten the greens, not drench them.
Step 4: Top with Shaved Parmesan and Extras
Scatter the delicate shavings of Parmesan across the dressed arugula. This is where the salad gets its wow factor! Add extra flair if you like: toasted pine nuts add texture, halved cherry tomatoes bring color and sweetness, or thinly sliced red onion brings a mellow sharpness. The salad is ready to enjoy immediately.
How to Serve Arugula Salad with Shaved Parmesan
Garnishes
When serving Arugula Salad with Shaved Parmesan, try crowning it with an extra flourish of shaved cheese and a grind of black pepper just before it hits the table. Fresh lemon zest or a drizzle of aged balsamic can also elevate the flavors while keeping things classic and understated. Presentation really does make a difference!
Side Dishes
This salad is a perfect companion to many main dishes. It pairs especially well with grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or pasta. The freshness of the arugula and sharpness of the Parmesan balance heartier, richer dishes, making it a wonderful partner for Italian meals or as a bright side at your dinner party.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress, serve Arugula Salad with Shaved Parmesan on individual plates with a nest of greens, a high pile of cheese, and sprinkled nuts arranged artfully on top. For a rustic twist, mound the salad in a large wooden bowl and let everyone help themselves family-style. Mini versions in small glasses also make a chic appetizer for gatherings!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover Arugula Salad with Shaved Parmesan, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For best results, keep the greens and dressing separate if you anticipate leftovers, so the arugula stays crisp and fresh. Fully dressed salad should be eaten within 24 hours for optimal taste and texture.
Freezing
Freezing isn’t recommended for this salad. Both arugula and Parmesan don’t fare well with freezing and thawing—arugula will wilt and become soggy, while the cheese can lose its lovely texture. This salad is all about vibrant freshness, so enjoy it right away!
Reheating
There’s no need to reheat Arugula Salad with Shaved Parmesan since it’s meant to be served cold or at room temperature. In fact, it tastes best when just assembled. If your salad has been refrigerated, let it sit out for a few minutes before serving to take the chill off and let the flavors bloom.
FAQs
Can I use baby spinach instead of arugula?
Absolutely! While the peppery bite of arugula is signature in this salad, baby spinach is a gentle substitute. The flavors will be milder, but you’ll still get that summery, fresh bite along with the creamy Parmesan.
What’s the best way to shave Parmesan?
To achieve beautiful shavings, use a vegetable peeler on a block of Parmesan. This creates lovely, wide ribbons that melt delicately on your greens. Freshly shaved cheese always beats pre-grated for flavor and presentation!
Can I prepare the dressing in advance?
Yes, the lemon vinaigrette can be whisked up to two days ahead. Just keep it in a sealed jar in the fridge and give it a good shake before using. This makes assembly even faster for busy weeknights or last-minute get-togethers.
How can I make it more filling?
If you’d like to turn Arugula Salad with Shaved Parmesan into a meal, try tossing in some cooked chicken, white beans, or even farro for extra protein and staying power. The flavors pair wonderfully and will keep you satisfied longer.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, as written, this recipe contains no gluten ingredients, making it naturally gluten-free! It’s perfect for guests with gluten sensitivities and is vegetarian friendly as well.
Final Thoughts
The next time you crave something fresh, quick, and utterly delicious, let Arugula Salad with Shaved Parmesan be your answer. It’s a crowd-pleaser that feels special without any fuss. Try it for your next meal—you might just find it’s the easiest way to bring a little Italian sunshine to your table!
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Arugula Salad with Shaved Parmesan Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
A refreshing and simple Arugula Salad with Shaved Parmesan, drizzled with a zesty lemon vinaigrette. This light and flavorful salad is perfect as a side dish or appetizer, featuring the peppery bite of arugula complemented by the richness of shaved Parmesan.
Ingredients
Arugula Salad:
- 4 cups fresh arugula
Dressing:
- 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon honey
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- toasted pine nuts
- cherry tomatoes
- thinly sliced red onion
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Assemble the Salad: Place arugula in a large salad bowl. Drizzle the dressing over the arugula and toss gently to coat.
- Finish and Serve: Top with shaved Parmesan and any optional toppings you like. Serve immediately as a light side or appetizer.
Notes
- For best flavor, use freshly shaved Parmesan and freshly squeezed lemon juice.
- You can add grilled chicken or white beans for a heartier version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salad
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 7mg
